If you are looking to start your day with a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines Middle Eastern flair with comforting breakfast vibes, the Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe is an absolute must-try. These soft, golden brioche buns cradle perfectly baked eggs, vibrant wilted spinach, and creamy feta cheese, all sprinkled generously with aromatic za’atar seasoning. The harmony of textures and tastes makes this recipe a standout for brunch or an indulgent breakfast that feels both fresh and hearty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe lies in its straightforward pantry-friendly ingredients. Each contributes a unique role — whether it’s the fluffy buns providing the perfect vessel, or za’atar bringing that herbaceous signature punch.
- Brioche or soft sandwich buns: These buns offer a tender, slightly sweet base that becomes perfectly toasted in the oven.
- Olive oil: Used to lightly coat the buns and sauté the spinach, it adds a smooth richness and helps the flavors meld.
- Fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and a fresh, earthy taste that balances the richness of the egg and feta.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Gives a creamy, salty tang that complements both the spinach and eggs beautifully.
- Large eggs: The star ingredient, gently baked right inside the buns for that luscious, runny yolk center or firm texture based on your preference.
- Za’atar seasoning: This Middle Eastern spice blend elevates the dish with notes of thyme, sesame, and sumac, delivering bold aroma and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, they enhance every element in the dish.
- Optional fresh herbs: Parsley or dill for a fresh garnish that brightens and adds color to your presentation.
How to Make Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Buns
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Slice the tops off your brioche buns, then carefully scoop out a small portion from the center to create a cozy little nest for the filling. Brush the interior of each bun lightly with olive oil, which will help keep them moist and add a subtle richness as they bake. Place the prepared buns on your baking tray so they’re all ready for assembly.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then toss in the chopped spinach. Sauté it just until wilted—this takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Cooking the spinach beforehand prevents excess moisture from seeping into the buns during baking, while concentrating its bright flavor and vibrant color.
Step 3: Assemble the Buns
Divide the sautéed spinach evenly into each bun cavity, making sure to spread it out for balanced bites. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the spinach, adding creamy and salty bursts to every mouthful. Then crack one whole egg carefully into each bun, taking care not to break the yolk. Season each egg with za’atar, salt, and pepper to enhance the dish’s signature complexity.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the tray to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the eggs—you want the whites to set fully, and the yolks to reach your ideal doneness. If you prefer firmer yolks, simply add a few more minutes to the baking time. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a final aromatic touch.
How to Serve Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe is all about brightening the dish and adding a fresh herbal lift. Simple leaves of parsley or dill bring a delightful pop of green and a light, refreshing flavor contrast to the richness of feta and egg.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp side salads featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette or a light yogurt dip with mint. Fresh fruit bowls or roasted root vegetables also complement the buns, offering balance between savory and sweet on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve these buns on a rustic wooden board garnished with scattered za’atar and herb sprigs for an inviting feast look. You can also cut each bun in half diagonally to reveal the luscious, golden yolk inside or even serve them with small pots of labneh or hummus to dip for an extra Middle Eastern touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the buns individually wrapped in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh for up to two days without drying out the bread or other ingredients, making it easy to enjoy reheated pockets of deliciousness later.
Freezing
To freeze, place assembled but unbaked buns on a tray lined with parchment and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to one month and baked straight from the freezer with a few additional minutes of cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crisp edges and warm the filling without overcooking the eggs. Avoid microwaving to prevent a rubbery texture, especially for the eggs and feta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread instead of brioche buns?
Absolutely! While brioche buns provide a soft, slightly sweet base, you can swap them for whole wheat rolls or sourdough buns that offer a heartier, rustic texture. Just be sure to hollow them out well to fit the filling.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to feta cheese for this recipe?
Yes, for a dairy-free or vegan option, you can use plant-based cheese crumbles or simply omit the feta altogether. Nutritional yeast sprinkled on top adds a nice cheesy flavor in place of traditional feta.
How can I make sure the eggs don’t overcook in the oven?
Keeping a close eye on cooking time is key. Bake the buns for 12 to 15 minutes and check the eggs at the 12-minute mark. If you prefer runnier yolks, pull them out sooner; for firmer yolks, leave them in a couple of minutes longer as needed.
Can I prep the spinach and feta filling in advance?
Yes! You can sauté the spinach and mix it with feta a day ahead, then refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply fill the buns and add the eggs right before baking to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What other herbs can I experiment with as garnishes?
Besides parsley and dill, fresh cilantro or mint leaves work beautifully with za’atar’s flavor profile and add different layers of freshness. Feel free to experiment based on what you love or have on hand.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe feels like inviting you into one of my favorite warm, cozy meals that’s surprisingly simple yet packed with bold, vibrant flavors. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special breakfast, this dish never fails to impress with its aromatic spices and comforting textures. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for these delightful buns again and again!
Print
Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these flavorful Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta, a Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast or brunch option featuring soft brioche buns filled with sautéed spinach, creamy feta cheese, and perfectly baked eggs seasoned with aromatic za’atar. This savory recipe is easy to prepare and makes a satisfying, wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Buns and Filling
- 4 brioche or soft sandwich buns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon za’atar seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare buns: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the tops off the buns and carefully scoop out a small amount of the center to create space for the filling. Lightly brush the inside of each bun with olive oil and arrange the buns on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sauté spinach: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble buns: Evenly divide the sautéed spinach among the hollowed buns, then sprinkle each with crumbled feta cheese. Carefully crack one egg into each bun, ensuring the yolk stays intact. Season with za’atar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the egg whites have set and the yolks reach your desired doneness.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with optional fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious breakfast or brunch.
Notes
- For firmer yolks, extend baking time by 2 to 3 minutes.
- Try whole wheat rolls or sourdough buns for a more rustic variation.
- To make this dairy-free, omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
